Table of Contents
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What is hapé plant medicine?
Hape Plant Medicine, also known as Rapé, rapéh, or snuff, stands as a venerable tradition rooted in the ancient practices of indigenous communities. This natural remedy is crafted from a blend of sacred plants, meticulously prepared to form a fine powder. Unlike conventional medicines, Hape embraces a holistic approach to healing, intertwining physical, spiritual, and emotional well-being.
Derived from the depths of the Amazon rainforest, Hape has been a cornerstone of traditional medicine for generations. Its origins can be traced to indigenous cultures that recognize the profound healing potential of specific plants found in their surroundings.
The term “Hape” holds cultural significance, reflecting its role as a conduit for spiritual connection. It is more than a medicinal substance; it embodies a sacred journey toward enlightenment. Hape is renowned for its diverse benefits, offering a range of effects from enhanced focus and mental clarity to spiritual insights.
Widely utilized across South America, native peoples of Brazil were the first known to have used ground tobacco as snuff. Other indigenous populations that use it are found in Venezuela, Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, Bolivia, and the northern regions of Chile and Argentina, Hape is deeply intertwined with the cultural fabric of these societies. Hape, in essence, is not just a plant medicine; it is a gateway to profound self-discovery and communal connection.
Hape Plant Medicine benefits and effects
Hape Plant Medicine unfolds a tapestry of benefits and effects, revealing a spectrum of transformative experiences that resonate across physical, mental, and spiritual dimensions. Rooted in ancient wisdom, the benefits of Hape extend far beyond conventional medicine, offering a holistic approach to well-being.
Physically, Hape is recognized for its potential to enhance focus and mental clarity. The finely crafted powder, derived from sacred plants, stimulates a sensory experience that invigorates the senses and promotes heightened awareness. Users often describe an increased sense of alertness and vitality.
On a mental and emotional level, Hape is renowned for its mood-enhancing properties. Many individuals report a sense of emotional release and balance, as Hape encourages a deep introspective journey. The meditative qualities of Hape can lead to a profound sense of peace and tranquility, providing relief from stress and anxiety.
Spiritually, Hape is considered a potent tool for self-discovery and connection to higher consciousness. The ritualistic use of Hape in ceremonies fosters a heightened state of awareness, allowing individuals to explore their inner realms and tap into intrinsic wisdom.
Moreover, Hape is valued for its ceremonial significance, often used in rituals that promote communal bonding and shared experiences. The plant medicine acts as a facilitator for open communication and the exchange of wisdom, creating a sacred space for personal and collective growth. In essence, the benefits and effects of Hape extend far beyond the physical realm, offering a transformative journey that touches the core of one’s being.
How do you use hapé snuff in ceremony?
Using Hape, also known as Rapé, in ceremony is a sacred and intentional practice deeply rooted in indigenous traditions. Typically administered by a shaman or experienced practitioner, the process involves blowing or applying the finely powdered mixture through a pipe or an applicator into the nostrils of the participant. This ceremonial application is a ritualistic act, symbolizing the inhalation of spiritual insight and connection.
Some common names for the applicator include (these are dependent on context and the different indigenous cultures):
Kuripe: A small, usually V-shaped, self-applicator used to blow or administer Rapé into the nostrils.
Tepi: Similar to a Kuripe but longer, the Tepi is often used by another person to administer Rapé to someone else.
Ceremonial usage of Hape is often accompanied by prayers, chants, or specific rituals that vary among different indigenous cultures. The act of receiving Hape is considered a profound spiritual experience, fostering a heightened state of awareness and opening channels for introspection.
Partakers in the ceremony are encouraged to set intentions, creating a focused and intentional space for the healing properties of Hape to unfold. The experience is not merely a physical application of the plant medicine but a holistic journey that encompasses the mind, body, and spirit, facilitating a deep communion with the natural world and one’s inner self.
How do you use sacred snuff hapeh medicine on your own?
The sacred snuff rapé is a medicine to be used with great respect, and the more respectfully we treat it, the more beautifully it will treat us. It is important to start using a smaller quantity and to slowly increase the amount you use in each application. It’s like starting a new relationship; we are getting to know each other little by little. You are getting to know the sacred snuff rapé, and it is getting to know you, as well as how you process it personally.
Here’s what I do, speaking only from my own practices:
Prepare the Space:
- Prepare your space to use the medicine without distractions, with your phone on silent.
- Play some music and light up an incense.
- Always have water next to you, as a way to have the presence of the elements; water, earth, air, and fire.
- Prepare your space and yourself.
Create Inner Stillness:
- Give yourself 5 or 10 minutes of relaxation to let go of the daily routine and get ready to receive the medicine.
Application Preparation:
- Once feeling calmer and more still, choose the rapé you will use and place your intention with it.
- My way of setting an intention is not to ask to work on this or that, which can feel egoic as if trying to direct the medicine, but instead to put myself in its hands and allow it to let me be an instrument for whatever unfolds.
Prepare the Dose:
- Place the medicine in your hand. You can start with a small amount; I recommend starting with less.
Create Internal Space:
- Try to create internal space of emptiness, a fertile emptiness, because the only way you can sow is by being empty. If you are full, even of good intentions or anything else, there is no space to sow anything new.
Load the Kuripe:
- Flatten the medicine to avoid any lumps.
- Divide it roughly in half.
- Load the kuripe with one of the halves.
Inhale Deeply Before Application:
- It is important to inhale before putting the kuripe to your nose, not after, as this could cause discomfort.
Apply the Medicine:
- Hold your breath, place the kuripe to your nostril, turn it around, and then blow softly and slowly. It’s crucial to start gently as you are just beginning to use the medicine.
Repeat for the Other Nostril:
- Take all the remaining sacred snuff rapé, load it again, and proceed to blow into your other nostril, just like the first one.
Enter Into Your Own Process:
- Set the kuripe aside and allow yourself to be in the moment. Do not rush; let the medicine do its work. I always advise starting with a medium strength rapé because the medicine enters to clean you energetically and physically. Using a very strong rapé initially can be too abrupt and might cause you to dislike the medicine.
Remember, it’s ideal to start with small amounts and a softer sacred snuff rapé, gradually increasing the amount and the strength as your body becomes freer and cleaner.
Hape tobacco snuff: What’s the difference between hape and rapé?
Hape and Rapé, both names for the sacred tobacco snuff, share similarities yet carry distinct characteristics. The terms are often used interchangeably, but variations exist among indigenous communities. Hape typically refers to the broader category of the snuff, encompassing various plant mixtures beyond tobacco, while Rapé specifically denotes a type of snuff containing Mapacho or Nicotiana rustica, a potent variety of tobacco.
The difference lies in the specific plant ingredients and their proportions, varying regionally and in accordance with traditional recipes. Some consider Rapé as a subset of Hape, emphasizing the inclusion of Nicotiana rustica. The choice of plants, the blending process, and the intended ceremonial purpose contribute to the nuanced distinctions. Both Hape and Rapé are integral to spiritual rituals, promoting mental clarity, heightened awareness, and connection to the divine, but the subtle botanical variations reflect the rich cultural diversity and traditions within indigenous practices.
Is Hape, or Rapeh, addictive?
Hape, the sacred tobacco snuff used in indigenous rituals, is generally considered non-addictive in the traditional ceremonial context. The ceremonial use of Hape is deeply rooted in cultural and spiritual practices, where it is administered with intention and reverence. Users typically engage with Hape infrequently, during specific rituals or ceremonies, rather than habitually or for recreational purposes.
Unlike commercially produced tobacco products, which often contain addictive additives, Hape in its traditional form lacks such components. The primary purpose of Hape is spiritual and therapeutic, emphasizing personal and communal well-being.
However, it is crucial to distinguish ceremonial use from potential misuse. If Hape is used outside its cultural and ceremonial context or without proper guidance, there could be a risk of developing habitual patterns. As with any substance, moderation and respect for the cultural and spiritual significance of Hape are essential to maintain a healthy relationship with this traditional plant medicine. Individuals interested in exploring Hape should approach its use with mindfulness, awareness, and a deep understanding of its sacred origins.
Common types of Hape Plant Medicine
The use of Hape is deeply rooted in cultural and regional practices, with variations in ingredients and preparation methods. To find out more about the hape you use or would like to use, ask the person that makes it or distributes it.
| Common Name | Description | Countries | Indigenous People |
|---|---|---|---|
| Yawanawa Rape | Blend of Mapacho tobacco and various medicinal plants | Brazil | Yawanawa Tribe |
| Nukini Rape | Contains sacred plants and ashes from specific trees | Brazil | Nukini Tribe |
| Shuar Rape | Made from Mapacho and ash from specific tree bark | Ecuador | Shuar People |
| Kaxinawá Rape | Blend of Mapacho, Tsunu ash, and medicinal plants | Brazil | Kaxinawá Tribe |
| Matsés Rape | Mix of Mapacho, medicinal plants, and tree ash | Peru | Matsés People |
| Huni Kuin Rape | Incorporates a variety of medicinal plants | Brazil | Huni Kuin (Kaxinawá) |
| Katukina Rape | Contains Mapacho and ashes from specific medicinal trees | Brazil | Katukina Tribe |
| Kambo Rape | Combination of Mapacho and Kambo secretion | Brazil, Peru | Various Indigenous Groups |
| Inga Rape | Made from Mapacho and medicinal plants | Colombia, Ecuador | Inga People |
| Puyanawa Rape | Blend of Mapacho, medicinal plants, and tree ash | Brazil | Puyanawa Tribe |
Rapés from Brazil and their descriptions
Here are more detailed descriptions of the Brazilian rapehs:
1. RAPÉ BASHAWA Ideal for those seeking clarity of thought, openness of intuition, and mental connection from a strong energy and high vibration rapé. It is very suitable for treating poor blood circulation and also serves as an antioxidant and natural cleanser. Its anti-flu properties help treat flu and cold symptoms, and it is also a great ally against bronchitis.
2. RAPÉ BOBINSANA Known for its stimulating effects and its ability to open the heart for more compassion, strength, and guidance, it also strengthens the spirit of love, creating a warm and empathetic feeling and can induce lucid dreams.
3. RAPÉ CACAO Grants an emotional, mental, physical, and spiritual experience. Known as the rapé of happiness and love, it generates a sensation of vitality, well-being, and love. This rapé is especially recommended for people going through deep sadness or diagnosed with depression, as its components will help reestablish hormones like serotonin and oxytocin.
4. CANELA DE VELHO One of the strongest among the available varieties. It is deep, provides a great connection to the earth, and is very intense; even overwhelming. It performs a deep physical and energetic cleanse, so purging is quite possible. Canela de Velho has been used as a remedy for a variety of chronic pains in the knees, spine, and joints for centuries.
5. RAPÉ CHACRUNA A strong rapé that detoxifies the pineal gland, mainly responsible for secreting melatonin and regulating the sleep hormone. This detoxification process cleanses and renews the gland, elevates our state of consciousness, and recovers acumen and intuition.
6. RAPÉ CUMARU Activates the crown and frontal head chakras, soothes, aiding mental focus. It has a great grounding connection, and the ability to put the user in deep trance states. It easily reaches the back of the throat, and on some occasions, it may cause nausea or be purgative. Its properties include spiritual protection.
7. JATOBA If you struggle to maintain your position, set healthy boundaries, or face life’s challenges, Jatoba is recommended to increase your mental strength. This is an attribute of our sixth chakra. Mental strength is the set of resources that help us face life’s challenges. The greater it is, the easier it is to face uncertainty, recognize our desires, and decide which path we want to take. Having mental strength allows us to bring out the best in ourselves when we need it most. It is the pillar that allows us to overcome adversities and problems, the trait that drives us to keep going and not give up or fall into despair when we most need calm. It is the ability that allows us to make good decisions in difficult moments.
8. RAPÉ JUREMA Recommended to create connection not only with our partner but with the people we love most. Relationships are a plant that needs to be cultivated and watered consistently. For this reason, if you need to reconnect with your partner or loved one, or re-link if there has been a shortfall, this rapé will be a means to reach forgiveness, move forward, and revitalize emotional ties.
9. RAPÉ JUREMA BRANCA Chakras: Crown and Heart. Rapé of strength and connection. The tobacco from jurema branca acts with greater strength in the mental field, calming thoughts and providing concentration. It is used to provide lucid dreams and connection with the spiritual world, acting in the development of the mediumistic field.
10. RAPÉ MURICI Chakras: Second Chakra raising energy to the heart / Sexuality, taboos, traumas. It has a beautiful masculine balance, rooted helps connect with our inner power, to focus our intention, concentrate and have mental clarity. If your enjoyment of your sexuality has been blocked by experiences of abuse or self-confidence, the rapé Murici will help you expand the energy of the second chakra towards your heart. It works from this energy center that regulates our healthy sexuality, to release and free us from whatever generates suffering through love and compassion, as well as embracing the sacred enjoyment of this life-generating energy in you. Expressions of this imbalance can manifest as constant apathy, lack of sexual desire, or excessive search for self-destructive passions. However, when we cultivate the health of this vital energy, you will enjoy personal acceptance, connection with your body, and good sexual health, as well as natural enthusiasm for life.
18. RAPÉ QASIKAY A suitable Rapé for introspection and detecting what throws us off balance, leading us to forgive ourselves and to grant heartfelt forgiveness, bringing peace to all parts of our being and with the beings around us, it brings peace, and aids in meditation states.
19. RAPÉ THAK Perfect for severe and chronic states of rhinitis and sinusitis. An ideal Rapé to immediately quiet the mind in accelerated states of it. Overthinking negatively and focusing only on problems can lead to mental fatigue, headaches, heaviness, Thak assists in the aforementioned states.
20. RAPÉ KUSI Helps us release suppressed tears caused by sadness, suffering, and general soul pains, contributing from the heart chakra a deep state of joy, enjoyment, and gratitude, thus relaxing our entire nervous system and helping us to see the positive side of life.
21. RAPÉ QHALI KAY This Rapé will assist you when you are in states of high stress, physical or emotional tension. It can come from any situation or thought that makes you feel frustrated, angry, or nervous. Stress is your body’s reaction to a challenge or demand. In short episodes, stress can be positive, such as when it helps you avoid danger or meet a deadline. But when stress lasts for a long time, it can harm your health.
Where can you buy rapé / hape or rapeh plant medicine?
Hape Plant Medicine can be obtained from reputable sources such as specialized online retailers, wellness shops, or directly from practitioners knowledgeable in traditional practices. Ensure authenticity by researching the source’s reputation and commitment to ethical and sustainable practices. Always prioritize quality and cultural sensitivity when purchasing Hape.
If you are in Ecuador, please get in touch.
Rapé tool and applicator – Kuripe and Tepi
Kuripe and Tepi (pictured above) are both tools used in the administration of Rapé (pronounced “ha-peh”), a sacred snuff used by various indigenous tribes in the Amazon region. Although both tools serve the same general purpose of facilitating the use of Rapé, they differ significantly in design and use. Here’s a breakdown of the key differences:
Kuripe:
- Design: A Kuripe is a small, V-shaped pipe usually made from bamboo, wood, or bone. It’s crafted to form a self-applicator, which means it’s intended for personal use.
- Usage: The narrower end is placed in one nostril, and the wider end is placed in the mouth. The user blows through the mouthpiece to administer a dose of Rapé to themselves. This self-application makes the Kuripe ideal for personal, meditative sessions.
- Symbolism: It often symbolizes personal healing and self-awareness, aligning with the introspective nature of many shamanic practices.
Tepi:
- Design: A Tepi is much longer than a Kuripe, typically made from similar materials but designed for communal use. It is a blowpipe that allows one person to administer Rapé to another.
- Usage: One end of the Tepi is placed in the administrator’s mouth, and the other end is directed into the recipient’s nostril. This requires a second person to administer the Rapé, emphasizing a shared experience or ritual.
- Symbolism: The Tepi is often used in ceremonial contexts and symbolizes connection, trust, and community. It’s particularly used by shamans or healers to apply Rapé in a ritual setting, facilitating healing, cleansing, and communal bonding.
Contextual Usage:
- Individual vs. Communal: The Kuripe is suited for solo use, enabling an individual to engage with the healing and grounding benefits of Rapé independently. In contrast, the Tepi emphasizes communal engagement and is often used in group settings to strengthen bonds and conduct spiritual ceremonies.
- Ceremonial Importance: Both tools are integral to the ceremonial practices involving Rapé, but the Tepi, in particular, is crucial for rituals that involve a healer or shaman administering the snuff as part of a larger spiritual or healing ceremony.
Both the Kuripe and the Tepi are deeply embedded in the cultural and spiritual practices of the tribes that use them, reflecting a profound connection to the natural world and its healing powers.
Please note that though we might sell rapeh, we will not sell other sacred medicines like ayahuasca, San Pedro / ahuacoya, Peyote or Yopo.
Is it illegal to bring hapeh to the United States?
No, it is not illegal to bring hapeh, or rapeh, or tobacco snuff to the US.
